Scalzo, Barbier win in Wheaton City Council races

One incumbent held onto his seat on the Wheaton City Council Tuesday, while another lost his re-election bid.

Todd Scalzo defeated two challengers to win a third term representing the city's West District. And newcomer Michael Barbier knocked off an incumbent in the East District.

With all 20 precincts unofficially reporting, Scalzo captured 1,303 votes. Lynn Robbins had 849 votes, followed by Robert "Bobby" McNeilly with 687 votes.

Scalzo, a 38-year-old attorney, secured endorsements from city council members and Mayor Michael Gresk.

As the city prepares for a multiyear downtown streetscape project, Scalzo has expressed support for a permanent structure to house the popular French Market and other improvements on the south side of the railroad tracks.

In another three-way race, Barbier unseated East District Councilman Thor Saline.

Barbier finished with 1,231 votes, according to unofficial tallies. Thomas Dymit came in second with 411 votes, while Saline had 250 votes.

During the campaign, Barbier touted his background as a civil engineer for the DuPage County Division of Transportation. The 32-year-old has suggested the city could better leverage opportunities for federal funding to offset the costs of infrastructure projects.

South District Councilman John Rutledge and North District Councilman Phil Suess ran unopposed to retain their seats. Rutledge has served on the council since 2011. Suess will begin his fourth term at a city council meeting in May.